Exhibiting at Parliament of NSW

The exhibition space

​The Parliament of New South Wales is a prominent public venue in the Sydney CBD attracting thousands of visitors each year. Our expansive public exhibition space – the Fountain Court – is located within Parliament's main thoroughfare, connecting the heritage façade of the former Rum Hospital to the contemporary offices which accommodate members and staff.

The exhibition walls, including the Reconciliation Wall, are available for exhibitions of a high curatorial and artistic standard.

The space is open to the public from Monday to Friday between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm. Visitors attending functions and meetings outside of these hours also view the artworks.

The exhibition space is offered with no fee incurred by exhibitors.

The Parliament of NSW's fountain at night, lights reflect on the water and art can be seen on the exhibition walls.

Who can apply to exhibit?

All are welcome to apply, however the Parliament encourages applications from New South Wales' Government departments and public authorities, local government bodies, Australian Government departments and public authorities, charitable or not-for-profit organisations, consulates and groups of New South Wales' artists. Exhibitions by solo artists will only be accepted at the discretion of the Presiding Officers.

What types of exhibitions will be accepted?

Exhibitions must have some connection to one or more of the following:

  • the Parliament
  • particular communities within the State
  • the general community in NSW.

An exhibition cannot appear to contribute to a current political debate. Material should be in keeping with the profile of the parliamentary setting, be appropriate for general viewing and not be overly provocative.

People viewing a Fountain Court exhibition

How to apply

Start by reading:

Fountain Court Exhibition Policy

Exhibiting in the Fountain Court Guidelines
Find out about exhibiting on the Reconciliation Wall

You will then need to contact a member of Parliament to request that they support your application and agree to act as the parliamentary host.

Once a member has agreed to support the exhibition, complete the Application to Exhibit in the Fountain Court and lodge the form with the Usher of the Black Rod.

The application must be accompanied by a portfolio which provides enough detail to enable the quality and suitability of the exhibition to be determined.

Please note that the application process is very competitive and the final decision is at the discretion of the Presiding Officers.

If you have any questions please contact the Legislative Council's Black Rod team on (02) 9230 2619 or exhibitions@parliament.nsw.gov.au​

You can also find more information in our print-friendly Fountain Court Brochure​.

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